The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South-West region, has rejected the proposed ban on preaching inside commercial vehicles, warning that the provision could restrict citizens’ constitutional rights.

The position followed the passage of the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, by the Senate, which proposed a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles.

The bill, if assented to, would also impose a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both on motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.

In a statement yesterday by the South-West Chairman of CAN, Bishop Barnabas Akinsanya, the body said the proposed legislation requires careful review to ensure it did not infringe on citizens’ fundamental freedoms.

It expressed what it described as “serious concerns” regarding aspects of the proposed bill, “particularly the provision prescribing sanctions for preaching in commercial buses and the outright prohibition of hawking in such vehicles.

“While government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure public safety, it also has an equal obligation to uphold the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression.

“We believe that any legislation capable of restricting these rights should be carefully examined to ensure that it is necessary, proportionate, and consistent with constitutional principles.”

According to CAN, prohibiting religious preaching without evidence that it poses a direct threat to public safety could create the impression of an unnecessary restriction on religious freedom and lead to avoidable public tension.

The statement added: “Many Nigerians depend on legitimate informal trading for their daily survival. Rather than adopting measures that may further worsen economic hardship, the government should prioritise policies that create employment opportunities, reduce poverty, improve public transportation, strengthen security, and enhance the welfare of citizens.”

It therefore appealed to the president to withhold assent to the bill in its present form and encourage further consultation with relevant stakeholders, including religious bodies, civil society organisations, legal experts, transport unions, and road safety professionals.

It added that “such dialogue will help produce legislation that effectively promotes road safety while preserving the constitutional rights and dignity of every Nigerian.” (The Guardian)